Comparative evaluation of herbal extract-containing mouthwash on periodontal parameters: A randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Background: Plaque is the main causative agent in the onset and progression of periodontal diseases and is directly linked to the development of gingivitis. Gingival diseases have long been managed with Ayurvedic remedies including mouthwashes that help reduce gingival bleeding and inflammation. Aim: The aim of the current study is to assess and compare the effectiveness of herbal extract containing mouthwash in controlling plaque and gingivitis. Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 40 participants were divided into two groups, with those in Group A receiving nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) only. Patients in Group B received NSPT in combination with herbal extract containing mouthwash (Sunthi, Haritaki, Musta, Khadira, Karpoora, Guvaka Bhasma, Marica, Devapushpa, Twak, and Katika Churna) which was advised to be used for 1 month, with 10 mL twice daily for 30 s following meals. The parameters assessed clinically were Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), and Papillary Bleeding Index (PBI) recorded at baseline and 1 month. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in both intragroup and intergroup comparisons ( P = 0.000), indicating that herbal extract-containing mouthwash was more effective in reducing GI, PI, and PBI. Conclusion: Given the study’s limitations, it can be concluded that mouthwash with herbal extract shows beneficial effects in reducing plaque and inflammation when used as an adjunct to daily oral hygiene regimen for patients with periodontal diseases.